Basic Steamed White Rice

Involving nothing more than rice, water, and salt, steamed rice can still go wrong in countless ways. Here’s a stress-free method that yields fluffy, tender rice.

Ingredients

2 cupslong-grain white rice

2 1/2 cupswater

1 teaspoonkosher salt (optional)

Instructions

1Place rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.

2Place rice and measured water in a medium saucepan with a tightfitting lid and bring to a boil over high heat. Add salt (if using), stir to incorporate, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer undisturbed until rice is tender, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit covered to steam, about 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve.